How to Build a Bar Height Table

By R.L. Cultrona

A home bar is one of the best places to entertain your guests. You may run into trouble, however, if you are hosting a large group of people and all of your bar space is taken up. The solution to this is to build several tables which are the height of the bar. These tables make it easy for your guests to congregate while still keeping the party flowing. They are easy to build and can be done in about an hour.

Place one of the 2x4s against one of the 4x4s so that the 4-inch side of the 2x4 is against one side of the 4x4, and the 2-inch side is even with an edge of the 4x4. Level this piece of wood and screw it into the 4x4 using two screws.

Attach another 2x4 to the side of a 4x4 so that the 4-inch side is against the 4x4, and the 2-inch side is even with the edge and perpendicular to the first 4x4. This board should fit in the "pocket" created between the first 2x4 and the 4x4. Attach this board using 4 screws (two in the 2x4, two in the 4x4).

Repeat the process in Step 2 for the remaining two 2x4 boards, placing them perpendicular to the initial two 2x4s, and even with the edge of the 4x4. This is the bottom support for the table.

Place the 4x4 on the supports so it is sticking straight up. Place the 30-inch square board on top of the 4x4 post and center it. Screw this piece into the top of the 4x4 using four screws.

Tip

While cedar is a good wood to use because it resists decay, there are scores of other wood types to try. Before buying lumber, compare the different colors and grains of wood so you can accurately get the look you are going for.

Warning

If your table supports are not level, the table will not stand on its own. Level all pieces before assembling.

References

About the Author

R.L. Cultrona is a San Diego native and a graduate of San Diego State University. She holds a Bachelor of Arts in theater, television and film with a minor in communications and political science. She began writing online instructional articles in June 2009.